Crunch
The Crunch primarily works the Rectus Abdominis, with secondary activation of the External Obliques and stabilizer support from the Transverse Abdominis. It is a bodyweight isolation exercise at beginner difficulty.
Abdominal crunch from supine position curling torso upward.
| Equipment | Bodyweight |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Type | Isolation |
| Movement | Flexion |
| Force | Push |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Primary | Rectus Abdominis |
| Secondary | External Obliques |
Muscles Worked
Front
Back
Primary
Secondary
Stabilizer
Primary Muscles
- Primary Muscle Rectus Abdominis (core)
Secondary Muscles
- Secondary Muscle External Obliques (core)
Stabilizer Muscles
- Stabilizer Muscle Transverse Abdominis (core)
Instructions
- Preparation: Lie supine on mat with lower legs on bench. Place hands behind neck or head. Execution: Flex waist to raise upper torso from mat. Keep low back on mat and raise torso up as high as possible. Return until back of shoulders contact mat. Repeat. Comments: Certain individuals may need to keep their neck in neutral position with space between their chin and sternum. SeeSpot Reduction Myth. SeeArm Position During Waist Exercises.
Alternative Exercises
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